Monday, July 7, 2014

The Allegro Foundation is a wonderful Charlotte nonprofit that helps children with disabilities. Its signature annual gala fundraiser is the Ambassador's Ball held every January. Since it originated five years ago, the ball is a chance to meet a foreign ambassador to the U.S. while mingling with leaders in Charlotte's business, political and philanthropy circles.Since it's inception, the ball has been held at Felix Sabates Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte dealership. Felix Sabates is a strong supporter of the Allegro Foundation and his donation of a venue when the annual gala began was a huge boost. Now the event has become so big, it's moving to Quail Hollow for the sixth gala on Jan. 10, 2015. The photo above is of Felix at the 2012 gala with three of his favorite ladies: Kim LeCompte (from left), Mimi Sabates and Allegro Foundation founder and president Pat Farmer. The foundation plans to honor Felix at the 2015 ball for his ongoing generosity. The other special guest will be an ambassador, of course. (Although it hasn't been confirmed yet, I hear it's going to be the Ambassador from Canada.)The Ambassadors who visit Charlotte can't help but develop a special love for the children the foundation helps and they leave with a commitment to continuing the ties they formed on their visit.For example, when Ambassador of Monaco GillesNoghès was the special guest several years ago, he went home and helped establish a lasting friendship between the foundation and Monaco. On July 16, the internationally acclaimed all male choir “Les Petits Chanteurs de Monaco” has been commissioned by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco to perform at St. Gabriel Catholic Church at 7 p.m. for a free concert that's hosted by the foundation. The church is at 3016 Providence Road. Below are some pictures from the 2014 ball. If you're interested in attending the 2015 gala, contact Stephen Davis at the foundation, 704-412-5229. For more details about the foundation, go to www.allegrofoundation.net.